Upcoming Changes to Dynamics 365 (CRM)-July 2017 release

Recently, Microsoft announced the upcoming July 2017 release for Dynamics 365 (CRM). As a result, many things are being changed, but, I am sure, you have come to expect these changes. However, these changes are quite impactful as they are items that are being deprecated within Dynamics 365 (CRM).

So, what does this mean for you? This will require you to be prepared to make necessary business decisions, and Dynamics 365 system updates to accommodate these changes.

High Impact Changes

So, what do I mean by “High Impact Changes”? These are changes that impact a major functional area of Dynamics 365 (CRM) that is widely used. I won't be covering all the changes, but I would like to highlight just a couple of these changes.

Dynamics 365 for Outlook (Outlook client) is deprecated

This is a high impact change in that many people and companies have relied on the Dynamics 365 for Outlook client (previously known as “Dynamics CRM for Outlook”) for many years.

You will need to understand the ramifications associated with this change.

Dynamics 365 App for Outlook

Due to the deprecation of the "Dynamics 365 for Outlook" client, This will require you to transition to the “Dynamics 365 App for Outlook” which was introduced with Dynamics CRM 2016 (version 8.0). (For more information on the “Dynamics 365 App for Outlook”, reference this User Guide.)

This new app changes the way you interact with Dynamics 365 and Outlook. The accessibility is still there, but the interface has been changed. Many new options and features are available in the new app that allows for a more simplicity when creating or updating existing records within Dynamics 365.

More importantly, is the fact that you will need to update each computer that has the "old" client installed on it. As a result, you will need to invest time for the removal of the "old" client, and the set-up of the new app.

Email Router / Server Side Sync

Server Side Sync allows you to synchronize changes between Dynamics 365 (CRM) and your email system at the server level. One of the great benefits that I have seen is Dynamics 365 (CRM) appointments will directly sync with your mobile device calendar.

Dialogs are deprecated

Dialogs have been around for quite some time within CRM. As such, they are used in many customer service oriented companies. While this is not as highly utilized as the Outlook client, it will require a change in Dynamics 365 to utilize the new Business Process Flows.

Business Process Flows give you a guided, repeatable business process to capture the necessary information at the right stages. Further, Business Process Flows allow you to incorporate Branching Logic. A simple example of this is that a value you capture in a specific field in your first stage can add or remove any subsequent stages. Thus, you will be able to accommodate your unique business processes that are utilized within your company.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, you will need to review the many other items listed in the article. However, I just wanted to highlight a couple that could be impactful to you. By understanding these impacts, you will be more prepared to adjust to the latest changes. You will need to decide how to prepare yourself for these changes. ACE Microtechnology can assist you with all of these changes.

You will need to keep an eye out for more information on Dynamics 365 (CRM) version 9.0. I will keep you informed so that you are prepared for these changes.

Enjoy your journey...

Aaron

Aaron Back is Microsoft Certified Professional with many years experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 (CRM). He is actively involved with the Microsoft Dynamics CRMUG (User Group) Community. He involvement includes: Serving as Chapter Leader for his local CRMUG Chapter, serving on the CRMUG Board of Advisors, and speaking at the annual CRMUG Summit conference.

For more information or assistance with Dynamics 365 (CRM) contact ACE!